By Ogochukwu Isioma
The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has mourned the passing of the Esogban of Benin, Chief David Edebiri, who died aged 93 years.
The governor noted that Chief Edebiri, a senior Chief in Benin Kingdom, lived a fulfilled life, making indelible and unblemished contributions to the progress of the kingdom and its people.
Obaseki, in a statement, said the late Chief was a great man who did great things and will be remembered for his exploits and unwavering commitment to the development of the Benin Kingdom.
The governor said, “It is with a heavy heart that I received the news of the passing of the Esogban of Benin, Chief David Edebiri, a nationalist and elder statesman, who lived a life of service, espousing virtues of love and sacrifice that defined his long and illustrious life.
“Chief Edebiri, a senior Chief in Benin Kingdom, lived a fulfilled life, making indelible and unblemished contributions to the progress of the kingdom and its people.
“A journalist and an activist, he was one of the key members of the Zikist Movement, advancing ideas and ethos in the early days of Nigeria’s independence that saw to the development and growth of our dear nation.
“A notable and revered scribe, Chief Edebiri was never one to shy away from engaging on matters that affected the Nigerian nation. He served as a veritable fountain of knowledge and wisdom on local and national issues, and was always eager to provide informed and critical commentary on the state of the nation.”
According to him, “A sage who remained true to his convictions, he was a great man who did great things and will be remembered for his greatness and unwavering commitment to the development of the Benin Kingdom.”
“I commiserate with the Benin Royal Court, the Edebiri family, friends and relatives, and pray that God will grant all the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss,” the governor added.
